There are so many joys you can get from just having a cat. However, it also takes lots of work to take care of a cat. There are a few things that every person who owns a cat needs to know. This article highlights some of the jobs that you will have. Keep reading for some very helpful insights you can apply today.
You should take your cat to the vet on a regular basis to maintain optimum health. A routine check-up should happen annually, and more often if necessary shots are due. When the cat seems to be acting abnormally, take it to the vet immediately.
Make sure your cat is out of harms way by putting a little bitter apple on all the electrical cords to avoid them getting shocked. Cords should be covered, especially if your cat tends to chew on them. The tube from a used-up roll of paper towels makes an excellent shield for loose cords. If you have rarely used electronics, put them up when you aren’t using them.
Do not allow your cat to stay bored all of the time. Cats need to play and get regular exercise. Sadly, this is overlooked by many cat owners. Boredom can beget illness. Give them time and space where they can exercise and toys they can play with. If you have an indoor cat, offer him a variety of toys, scratching post or objects he can climb on.
Crystals form in urine from male cats. This can be prevented with good food choices. A cat passing the crystals can be very hurtful with an expensive vet bill to boot. Your cat’s food should be low in magnesium. Take a look at the food’s label. Cat food with lots of fish tends to have more magnesium, while products with lots of poultry tend to have less.
Anytime you travel with a cat, their ears should be monitored. You may like music loud and booming, but a cat will prefer lower volumes as their ears are more sensitive. So, keep your volume down, or turn it off to give your cat a better travel experience.
Don’t let your cat go outside. This can be something that isn’t very safe for a cat. Your cat may pick up some fleas, or worse. Cars, people, or animals could hurt your beloved pet. If letting your cat outdoors is important to you, let them out in a safe fenced area.
Unlike most humans, cats love heights. Providing a safe environment for your cat is key to its happiness. You do not need a big cat tree in the living room; simply provide a solid shelf next to a window. You could even place a small bed or blanket on the shelf to make your cat feel more comfortable.
Do not discipline your cat if it makes a mess outside its litter box. If this happens, it may be because you have not kept the box as clean as you should. Your cat will become afraid of you if you punish it or scold it too often.
It would be a good idea for your cat to get used to a pet carrier. Cats never respond to punishment the way that dogs do. Cats learn well when they feel encouraged. You should place a toy or a blanket inside the carrier and place it in an area where it will be noticed by your cat. The cat will be drawn to the carrier, where it will feel safe and comfy. Once the cat is in the carrier, they will be so much easier to transport.
As you can now see, cats can bring you much joy. However, you must properly care for your cat in order for both of you to be happy. Ensure that you are successful in your cat endeavors by keeping what you learned here close by.